Infographic: Stats About Freelance Writing in 2015

Writing is one of those fields that is a perfect marriage for work flexibility. After all, writers can write anywhere, but it’s safe to assume that many would prefer to work in their PJs than in a traditional office. If you’re a freelance writer (or are looking to get in touch with your inner Suzanne Collins), you should know what the world of freelance writing looks like. Below are a few stats about freelance writing to get you started.

Freelance Writing Gigs published an interesting infographic, “The State of Freelance Writers in 2015.” It details exactly who is freelance writing the most (spoiler: women), the importance of pay vs. flexible work options, and how much you can really expect to get paid as a freelance scribe!

Who are the freelance writers of 2015?

These stats about freelance writing show that the bulk of the freelance writers surveyed were female (67 percent). The majority of these female freelance writers were between 25-34 years old (32 percent), while the 35-44 age group came in second (22 percent), and finally the 18- to 24-year-old crowd (18 percent). In terms of education, 39 percent hold a bachelor’s degree, while 18 percent have their master’s degree.

Why do people choose freelance writing as a career?

Reasons for freelancing vary from person to person no matter what industry they’re in, and that’s certainly the case for freelance writers. The need to earn money on the side was the biggest reason (30 percent), while 24 percent cited an allergic reaction to working in an office (24 percent), and 23 percent admitted that they had no other preferred career. By far (82 percent to be exact), being able to work wherever (and whenever) they wanted to was the best thing about being a freelance writer. A little over one-third (35 percent) enjoyed not having a boss to report to, and 30 percent enjoyed being able to set their own rates. And for those who prefer writing solo, 24 percent were thrilled to not have any face-to-face meetings!

What are some of the challenges of freelance writing?

But as those who have had freelance writing jobs can attest, there’s a flip side to all the fun and flex (and cool stories that you get to write!) that comes along with this career. Being uncertain where your next gig will come from ranks highest (59 percent), and difficulty in securing new clients comes in at a close second (57 percent). Distractions at home (19 percent) ranks third.

What do freelancers charge?

One of the biggest challenges freelance writers face comes down to four words: “What do I charge?” According to the infographic, 45 percent charge a flat rate, while 25 percent charge per word (and if you’re writing a 2,000 word article, well, cha-ching!), and some get paid per hour (20 percent). Even with all that cold hard cash, the average annual income for a writer can vary greatly. About 7 percent report earnings of $40,000 or higher, while, on average, about 13 percent make between $10,000-$20,000 annually.

What matters most to freelance writers?

The majority of freelance writers (43 percent) have between 1-3 steady clients, but sadly, 37 percent report not having any regular clients. Which explains why 43 percent of freelancers look for new writing gigs every single day. Since finding steady work can be tricky, it makes sense that 81 percent state that the rate of pay is the most important factor when applying for a writing job. Flexible work options (i.e., being able to work remotely) came in second, at 45 percent.

These stats about freelance writing should give you some insight into who is freelancing, how they’re freelancing, and how much they’re making. This info can help you determine if you want to make freelance writing into a full-time career, a part-time passion, or something you dabble in with once-in-a-while freelance assignments. It’s now up to you to write your own freelance writing future!

Readers, are you looking for freelance writing jobs? What would be your dream gig? Let us know in the comments below!